Hotei or Pu-Tai is better known as the Laughing Buddha.The image of Hotei is based on a Chinese Zen monk who lived over 1000 years ago.Many regarded him a future Buddha because of his benevolent nature. It was due to his large protruding stomach and smile that he came to be known as the Laughing Buddha.His image graces many temples, restaurants and homes in China and Japan.Legend has it that if one rubs the Laughing Buddha's great belly, it brings wealth,good luck and prosperity.

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